Page:The Annals of the Cakchiquels.djvu/145

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
ANNALS OF THE CAKCHIQUELS.
139

the woman was not surrendered to the Quiches by our ancestors Huntoh and Vucubatz. The Quiches, therefore, wished to humble these princes, and they wished to make the king Qikab do this. In anger the Quiches called a council and said: "Only the Ahpozotzils and the Ahpoxahils have obtained the glory and the power; let us kill them, for only Huntoh and Vukubatz have glory." Thus did the people speak to our ancestors. They wished to tempt the king Qikab to harass and slay the Zotzil Tukuches. But the king would not listen to the words of the Quiches. Truly the heart of the ruler was with Huntoh and Vukubatz. For truly great was the knowledge of Qikab and marvelous the power of this ruler. Not only was he a king in majesty, but also he overawed by his learning and the depth of his spirit, derived from Tullan. Therefore when the people saw his wisdom, they sought not to instruct him; they troubled not his majesty nor accepted the words of the king, but pursued alone the war which they had wished.

The Orders which were Given to the Rulers.

83. Then the king sent his messenger to announce to the rulers that the Quiches had resolved on the death of the Zotzil Tukuches. At the same time he sent to the rulers that they should come during the night, and the king Qikab spoke in these terms to the rulers Huntoh and Vukubatz: "It is neither the beginning nor the end of this war made against us, O my children. It has been seen what they have done to me. They have robbed me of my slaves, my family, my treasures, my precious metals. They wish to do the same with you. Go forth, therefore, my children, my younger brothers, my elder brothers." Then he gave his orders: "The lot is cast. Cease at once from the exercise of a power which you should share with me. Abandon this city to the revolted populace. Let your words no more be heard, my children. Go to where you can establish yourselves, to Ix-